The number one question I get asked is “How can I look better in photos?”  Most people say that they are not photogenic and feel awkward in front of a camera. Whether you’re updating your profile photo or just want to know how to look good in pictures with your friends, there are certain tips and tricks you can use to make sure you always look your best.

Posing for photos doesn’t have to be an art and you don’t have to be a movie star or a supermodel to have amazing photos. Here are my top 7 tips to look stunning in every photo:

1. Get comfortable in front of the camera

Practicing your most flattering poses and smiles isn’t just for models. If you want to know how to be more photogenic, you have to practice, practice, practice.  Step in front of a mirror or even in front of a camera to determine your best angles, poses, and smiles. Try different poses and practice angling your body in familiar positions that you can re-create later.

2. Angle your body

When you pose square on to the camera you tend to look bigger. Because the lens in the camera creates distortion, anything that is closer to the camera will appear larger and anything that is further away from the camera appears smaller.

The trick is to turn your body slightly away from the camera. When posing my clients I always recommend my clients that they take a small step back and shift their weight onto the foot that’s furthest away from me.  The end result is that you’ll look slimmer and the photo will be more flattering overall.

3. Roll your shoulders back

When you are posing for photos make sure to stop, take a few deep breaths, and check yourself.  Are you feeling relaxed? Start by dropping your shoulders and rolling them back. Prevent hunching them because it’s unflattering and makes you look sloppy.

4. Create negative space

Naturally, when we pose for a photo we tend to leave our arms flat at our sides, but this can make you look awkward, uncomfortable and can make you appear bigger than you really are.

Try bending your elbows slightly, pull your arms away from your body, and rest your hands on your hips. By doing this, you are creating negative space between your waist and arms, letting the light pass through and making the body look smaller overall.

5. Posture is everything

Relax, pull up from the top of your head, elongate your spine, and breathe. The next step is what I like to call “turtle neck.” This is done by pushing your face towards the camera and holding your chin down.  It might feel awkward at first but it helps create the look of a longer neck and sharper jawline.

6. Smile with your eyes

You always want your eyes to draw people in and be the focal point in photos, and there are certain things you can do to help make that happen. Think of happy thoughts!!! Yes, you heard it right - that’s how you get that twinkle! When your smile reaches your eyes it will light up your face.

Another good trick to get a genuine smile is literally to laugh out loud.  Even the most ridiculous laugh works because they always end in real laughs.

7. Keep your hands busy

I know it can be awkward figuring out what to do with your hands.  The best thing you can do is avoid crossing your arms in front of you. Instead, give your hands something to do. Try holding a prop like a coffee cup, wine glass, flowers, or a handbag. You can also use your hand to touch your hair, face, or even hook your thumbs into the outer corner of your pant pockets.

There’s so much more we can talk about when it comes to posing, but I believe these 7 tips make a good foundation to start from and work with everyone, regardless of age or body type. Remember to practice them and the next time you step in front of a camera you will be more confident and look amazing in your photos.

Make sure to download your FREE posing guide >>HERE<< and let me help you look amazing in all your pictures.

With Love,

Mariela